Hi, my '98 NEON 2.0 single overhead cam engine with 65,000 miles cranks for at least 5-7 seconds before it fires. Once it does start, it runs fine. I shot starting fluid into the thottle body in advance of cranking, trying to isolate the problem to either fuel of electric. It made no difference so I assume it must be electrical since fuel was already present. I pulled what I think are the cam & crank position sensors and cleaned them - put them back with no difference. The car is tripping no codes - just 55. Is ther a way to check these sensors? Should I next check fuel pressure? There is no check engine light.
This thing is driving me nuts! Can someone tell me where to go from here? Is my logic of assuming it's electrical correct? Please feel free to email me back with any questions. (RRestore@aol.com) Thanks very much a for all replies in advance.

John McCarthy
Crystal Lake, IL

 

your timing might be off a little....might have to check that..........try holding the gas peddel to the floor and turning it over then...if it starts quicker, then its your timing

 

Bad battery?

 

ith a scan tool ou could see sensor data to help, but it could be fuel related anyhow as starting fluid can be spratic at best. Try key on key off several time and then start it. see i this helps build fuel pressure. Possibly a leaky fuel pressure regulator.

 

Thanks for all the replies. If I turn the key to on and off several times and then try to start the engine it still cranks and cranks until it fires. However, if I do start the car, then shut it off and then try to start it again, it will fire imediately as it should. Shall I replace the fuel pressure regulator? Is that part of the fuel pump? Is my fuel pump nearing the end of its life? I'm pretty mechanical - how tough a job is it to do that? Thanks again.

John McCarthy
Crystal Lake, IL

 

Have you checked the battery yet? My car would do the same thing until my battery died.

 

Hi, yes I did replace the battery with a known good one and it made no difference.

 

Was there any corrosion on the terminals or battery cables? Check all battery connections to ensure a tight fit and corrosion free.

 

Yes, the battery was tight & clean.
Someone has suggested that I rap the plastic fuel tank when cranking the engine - it might dislodge any stuff blocking the fuel line - might it help? How about I just take the thing off the car, clean it all up along with all the conncetions and put it back in. Help?? Thanks again.

John McCarthy
Crystal Lake, IL